Opening Bank Accounts & Obtaining Cards in Vietnam: what actually matters to know
Short answer
Opening a bank account in Vietnam as a tourist is difficult and often requires a residence permit or specific visa status, though some banks may allow accounts with an e-visa. If you lack a local bank card for online purchases or refunds, consider using local acquaintances to pay with cash or utilizing cryptocurrency where compatible.
From real experience
To obtain a Visa card in Vietnam, individuals with a tourist visa may face restrictions.
Some banks, like Vietcombank, may only allow account opening without immediate card issuance. A residence permit (ВНЖ) might be required for card issuance.
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For authentic goods and electronics in Danang, Vietnam, shopping malls are recommended.
For specific items like Glo sticks, the Shopee marketplace is a viable option, though registration often requires a local Vietnamese SIM card. Obtaining a local bank card without a long-term visa (WНЖ) is difficult; consider asking Vietnamese friends to purchase items online with cash. For digital purchases where local payment methods are needed, cryptocurrency can be an alternative, but ensure you have compatible Russian bank cards.
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A local Vietnamese SIM card is often required for registration on platforms like Lazada.
Any local operator's SIM will suffice. Obtaining a Vietnamese bank card without a residence permit (WНЖ) is highly unlikely; consider asking local acquaintances to make online purchases with cash on your behalf. Cryptocurrency offers an alternative payment method, but ensure your Russian bank cards are compatible with crypto exchanges, as compatibility can change, and some cards may be blocked.
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To obtain a visa on arrival in Vietnam, travelers typically require an e-visa or an official approval letter.
A passport valid for at least 6 months is mandatory. Some banks, like VCB and BIDV, may require an e-visa for card issuance, while a stamp (entry permit) might only allow account opening. The specific requirements can vary depending on the bank and type of visa.
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Refunds on Shopee Vietnam cannot be credited to foreign or international UnionPay cards.
To secure a refund, buyers must either provide bank details of a Vietnamese bank account (which can be opened in 30 minutes at local banks) or accept store credit via ShopeePay vouchers.
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Explain the process and requirements for tourists to open bank accounts and obtain debit cards in Vietnam (e.g., Vietcombank, BIDV).
Note that having an e-visa might facilitate the process, but requirements can vary by bank and individual circumstances.
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A user arriving in Nha Trang, Vietnam, is looking for tourist insurance services and information on obtaining a tourist visa.
They also mentioned needing a visa to open a bank account. This highlights the procedural requirements for tourists and potential residents.
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A user planning to open a bank account in Vietnam has noted that a visa is required.
This highlights the necessity of obtaining the correct visa status for financial services.